The season of life for Mary Smith began on June 6, 1934, in Shellman, Randolph County, Georgia. She was one of seven children born to the late Herbert Smith and Sammie Jordan Smith.

During the early years of her life, she attended the public schools of Randolph County. After relocating to Albany, Georgia with her family, she completed her education in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Monroe High School in 1955.

Mary had the great advantage of growing up in a home in where she was taught to love God very early in life. She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior; was baptized; and remained humble and prayerful throughout life's seasons.

Ms. Mae, as she was endearingly called, was a devoted mother whose hands were never idle. Through the years, she taught her children the value of hard work as she labored tirelessly at Piedmont Plant Company. No matter what the task, Ms. Mae always gave her very best. Upon retirement, she was hailed as a committed, dedicated, and reliable employee whose work ethic was second to none.

A joy to be around, Mae was a very genuine, kind-hearted, simplistic person who embraced life's experiences with open arms. She never met a stranger, could converse with anyone who came into her life, and felt most content when serving others. Nothing brought as much satisfaction to Ms. Mae as spending time with her family—especially her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren who held the keys to her heart.. Her unwavering spirit, generosity, and unconditional love will forever be remembered.

On October 29, 2023, her earthly season ended at Atrium Health Navicent Center in Macon, Georgia, as she was called home from labor to reward. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Samuel Smith, grandson, Robert Smith, siblings, John M. Jordan, Norman Smith, Ernest Smith, David Smith, Ovene Smith, and Marilyn Smith.

Left to mourn her passing and cherish fond memories are her loving children, Simon Smith of Macon, GA, Gloria Jean Smith, Gwendolyn Smith (Kenneth Bell), and Zomonica Ann Smith (Carlos Smith) all of Albany, GA, Freddie Mae (Patrick) Drake of Ft. Mitchell, AL, and Patrick Smith (Monica Gilyard) of Tampa, FL; goddaughters, Evonne Cross and Evelyn Lewis; 21 grandchildren, 42 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friend.